These grilled pork chops served with sweet balsamic caramelized pears are a tasty treat! The juicy pork pairs perfectly with the soft, sweet pears for a dish that’s both fancy and simple.
Seriously, who knew fruit could taste so good on meat? It’s a sweet surprise that gets everyone talking. I love serving this dish with rice or a salad—it makes dinner feel special without too much effort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are perfect for grilling as they stay juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use boneless loin chops instead. Just note that they may cook a bit quicker.
Pears: Ripe pears like Bartlett or Anjou work wonders in this recipe. If pears aren’t available, try using apples for a different yet equally tasty twist!
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient adds depth. If you want something lighter, you could substitute with apple cider vinegar, although it alters the flavor a bit. I often drizzle some over salads too for added taste.
Shallots: For a sweeter taste, shallots are ideal, but if you don’t have them, onions (red or yellow) can work as well. Just remember that their flavor will be more pungent.
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary gives a lovely aroma. If you only have dried, use about 1 teaspoon, but fresh really enhances the dish!
How Do You Perfectly Grill Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get juicy results every time! Start by prepping the meat properly.
- Ensure the pork chops are at room temperature before grilling. This ensures even cooking.
- Heat your grill to medium-high—around 400°F (200°C) is ideal.
- Brush the chops with olive oil and season well with salt and pepper.
- Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, checking for those lovely grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temp of 145°F (63°C). This keeps the meat juicy.
- Let them rest for 5-10 minutes afterward—this helps retain moisture!
Following these steps ensures tender and flavorful pork chops every time!!
Grilled Pork Chops with Balsamic Caramelized Pears
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
For the Balsamic Caramelized Pears:
- 2 ripe pears, cored and cut into thin wedges
- 1 large shallot, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (plus more for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- Optional: 1 tbsp butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare. Just about 10-15 minutes for grilling the pork chops and another 10-15 minutes to caramelize the pears and shallots. You’ll have a lovely dinner ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels—it helps them get a great sear on the grill. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper for a tasty flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill:
Next, heat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 400°F (200°C). This will give your pork chops those beautiful grill marks and nice char!
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
Brush the pork chops lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and place them on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove them from the grill, cover loosely with foil, and let them rest while you work on the pears.
4. Caramelize Pears and Shallots:
In a large skillet, warm the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and garlic; sauté them until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This will create a lovely aroma in your kitchen!
5. Add the Pears:
Now it’s time to add those pear wedges! Stir them into the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and get a bit golden.
6. Create the Balsamic Mixture:
Stir in the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and rosemary sprigs. Let this mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes. You want the pears to be tender and the sauce to thicken slightly. If you’re feeling indulgent, you can add the optional butter at the end for extra creaminess!
7. Serve:
Remove the rosemary sprigs from the skillet. Place the grilled pork chops on plates and top them generously with the balsamic caramelized pears and shallots. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for a beautiful touch!
8. Optional Sides:
These pork chops pair beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Choose your favorite side to complete this wonderful meal!
Enjoy your delicious grilled pork chops topped with sweet and tangy balsamic caramelized pears! It’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops will cook a bit faster, so be sure to check the internal temperature around the 3-4 minute mark on each side to avoid overcooking.
What If I Can’t Find Balsamic Vinegar?
No problem! You can substitute with apple cider vinegar for a lighter flavor. However, keep in mind it will alter the final taste slightly, as balsamic has a unique sweetness.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can grill the pork chops a few hours ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the oven before serving. The caramelized pears can also be made in advance, just reheat them in a pan before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the pork chops again.
